Kemtron switch machine power demand

[[e-mail]]

Rix switch machines draw too much amperage to use on my 12 Volt power source.  Can anyone advise me from experience whether Kemtron dual coil switch machines demand the same high amperage?  Please answer soon.  Gratefully,  rcb209

[nedthomas]

Kemtrom switch machines draws about the same maybe a little more for a short period of time. Use a capacitive discharge unit powered by your 12v supply and that should fix the problem. The capacitive discharge unit also prevents burning up the coils if a pushbutton sricks closed.

[richg1998]

Capacitive discharge power supplies are best for twin coil machines. Some people have burned up their twin coil machines by using just a 12 volt power supply. The switch arcs and sticks in the closed position.

Rich

[Mark R.]

The Rix machines aren't going to be much different than the Kemtron units. Dual coil machines usually need a pretty good poke, especially if you are throwing more than one at a time.

A capacitor discharge unit will solve your supply problems.

Mark.

[Mark R.]

Wow - How's THAT for three quick answers !!! 

Mark.

[[e-mail]]

The Rix machines aren't going to be much different than the Kemtron units. Dual coil machines usually need a pretty good poke, especially if you are throwing more than one at a time.

A capacitor discharge unit will solve your supply problems.

Mark.

[[e-mail]]

Thanks, quick repliers!   I should have mentioned that I will be using control toggle switches with individual  capacitor discharge units, designed by Ken Stapleton for controlling 12 Volt power to turnout machines.  When I tested one on a Rix machine, the heavy power draw caused the capacitor discharge unit to click on and off.  I hoped that Kemtron machines might use less amps and work OK with those fine toggle units.  Guess not.   Your advice has saved a big expenditure for naught.  I really appreciate you guys!!     Bob

[richg1998]

CD power supplies give one shot. release the switch and the capacitor charges up after you release the switch. Usually a CD power supply is ready within a couple seconds depending on the design. Some people switch a ladder of maybe six twin coil machines at one time. I use a spring loaded push button switch, push and release. Twin coil machines are very quick.

Rich

[cacole]

Kemtron and similar twin coil switch machines are designed to work on the 16 Volts AC output of a typical power pack, so if you are using a 12 Volt DC power supply you need a CD circuit to give the motor more kick.

[tomikawaTT]

I have both RIX and Katsumi (imported by Kemtron, I bought mine from the source) twin-coil machines in service.  Either brand will draw in excess of 2 amps.  I don't use a CD circuit, but do have a 12.6 volt 3 amp dedicated power supply for switch machines only.

No matter whether you use CD or not, your electrical connection should be momentary.  I use several, ranging in complexity from hot probe and studs to momentary-contact rotaries.  Having a CD circuit continually connected to the coil of a switch machine defeats the purpose of using it in the first place.

Chuck (modeling Central Japan in September, 1964 - with 1964 switch machine technology)

[CSX Robert]

...No matter whether you use CD or not, your electrical connection should be momentary. I use several, ranging in complexity from hot probe and studs to momentary-contact rotaries. Having a CD circuit continually connected to the coil of a switch machine defeats the purpose of using it in the first place...

That actualy depends on the Capacitor Discharge circuit. There are some that are specifically designed to be used with a toggle that is not momentary. There are some examples on this page:http://home.cogeco.ca/~rpaisley4/ToggleTwin.html